“Our intent with the new GridLink CIS is to enable our clients to utilize a single platform that supports any metering technology, across multiple commodities, for both traditional postpaid or prepaid utility billing.”
Alpharetta, GA (PRWEB) September 15, 2014
Since 2009, SmartGridCIS has been supporting REPs in deregulated markets with their prepaid-only CIS software that enables prepaid rating & billing, real-time payment processing and customer messaging via multiple channels. The company’s track record of success includes a perfect compliance record with public service commissions in markets served. Building on this success, the Company has developed GridLink CIS - a web-based CIS solution that now combines traditional “post-pay” utility billing, with their proven prepaid solution, recently recognized as one of the leading customer care and billing solutions in the energy industry.
“The common complaint we hear from customers across deregulated markets is the inability of legacy CIS systems to natively support both smart meter and traditional meter data for billing customers, without significant customization,” states Mark Adkins, VP of Product Development. “Our intent with the new GridLink CIS is to enable our clients to utilize a single platform that supports any metering technology, across multiple commodities, for both traditional postpaid or prepaid utility billing.”
In addition to its comprehensive billing functions, GridLink CIS was built specifically to enhance de-regulated retailers promotional capabilities. As REPs look to add customers with enticing new incentives, the system incorporates a comprehensive promotions engine allowing retailers to build multiple promotions right into their rates and products. Samples include tenure-based credits, event-driven credits and discounts based on payment or enrollment events, and bundled products such as gift cards or smart thermostats.
Other features included in this latest release include integrated Continuous Service Agreements (CSA), fully customizable statement and document generation, configurable billing frequencies, batch data management and full general ledger/chart of accounts customization and integration.
In terms of implementation, GridLink CIS leverages a flexible architecture that will allow REPs to implement in phases. Ultimately this translates to a smoother migration of customer accounts from an existing billing or CIS platform. The “out-of-the-box” solution includes multiple components that a competitive retail energy supplier is looking for, including:
- SmartGridCIS myAccount Consumer Portal: Web-based consumer portal allowing for real-time and recurring customer payments, online account management, and account activity analysis including average daily usage, payment history, usage based on a customer-defined date range (yesterday, last month, month-to-date, etc.).
- SmartGridCIS myAccount Mobile: iOS and Android-based mobile application supporting consumer account management, billing and usage analysis, event-driven alerts and real-time, mobile payment processing.
- Multiple Messaging Channels: including email, two-way SMS text, automated outbound dialing, mobile and in-home display (IHD).
- Pre-Built Payment Processing Gateway: Enables large volumes of payment transactions including cash, credit, debit, AMEX, Discover, eCheck, Bill Me Later, PayPal, ACH, etc. These can be handled via in-person payment locations, as well as automated IVR, website, mobile app and over the phone (via customer service agent).
SmartGridCIS is a leading provider of energy billing and CIS solutions for regulated utility companies and deregulated retail energy providers (REPs) that want to fully leverage a smart metering infrastructure. Since making the prepaid energy platform available commercially in 2009, SmartGridCIS has continued to build a steady and diverse customer base while continuously enhancing their product offerings. GridLink CIS represents their latest billing and CIS software for REPs.
For media inquiries regarding SmartGridCIS or the GridLink CIS software, individuals are encouraged to contact President, John Bastian directly at +1 (404) 630-6943 or via email at, jbastian(at)smartgridcis(dot)com. To learn more or to purchase the new software please visit: http://www.smartgridcis.com.